September19,2013

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) released the following statement on H.R. 3102, a bill that would cut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by nearly $40 billion:

“Today, I opposed drastic cuts to SNAP that would eliminate essential nutrition support for millions of families across our nation. By changing eligibility requirements, the Republican led bill would slash $39 billion in SNAP funding over the next 10 years, resulting in nearly 4 million people losing all or part of their nutrition assistance. This is just wrong.

“This summer, I visited the Cherry Street Food Bank, Seattle’s Summer Food Service Program, Marra Farm, and more nutrition services throughout the 9th District. I saw firsthand how thousands of children, seniors, veterans, and families in our state rely on SNAP for meals and nutrition. Cutting close to $4 billion a year from this program would have a devastating impact.

“As our economy continues to recover, and unemployment is still high, it is critical that we continue to fight to save SNAP and the essential assistance it provides for millions of Americans. I have cosigned letters and cosponsored legislation that demands adequate funding for SNAP, and will do all I can to ensure that families get the nutrition assistance they need.”